Styling mods and Curve function for new version of classic sportster

In particular the styling tweaks make a clear move towards the look of the more upscale Mercedes-AMG GT with a more prominent diamond radiator grille and LED lights now a standard part of the package. A reprofiled bonnet and front bumper are accompanied by more generous use of chrome and larger front air intakes.

The choice of engines is much as before, encompassing SL400, SL500, AMG SL63 and AMG SL65 models. However there are technical changes to go with the new look with the SL400 receiving a 35bhp power hike. Now developing 362bhp and 369lb ft, this entry level model is expected to post a 0-62mph time of under five seconds although the top speed is still limited to 155mph.

There are no such changes to the 449bhp SL 500, however, nor to the 577bhp SL63 or to the V12 fitted to the range-topping 621bhp SL65. The 9G-Tronic nine-speed auto transmission will be standard across the range.

Other technical modifications include the availability of the Curve function, which is designed to reduce body roll. Until now this has been available only on the much larger S-Class Coupé. At the same time the new Dynamic Select system will offer the driver a wider choice of different suspension settings than before, from Comfort through to Sport+ .

The company has still to announce prices for all models but the expectation is for a substantial drop from £73,575 (at the lower end) to something under £70,000. This apparently good news is still to confirmed but in January Mercedes will reveal the specification changes needed to make this happen. Deliveries will begin around three months later